FAQ: Spay/Neuter

What are the advantages of spay/neutering my Jack Russell and are there any risks?

The basic disposition and temperament of your Jack Russell Terrier will not be changed by removing his or her reproductive capability. Neutering a male can make him more tolerant of other males, but neither neutering nor spaying will by itself turn your dog into an obese, lazy animal...that is the result of excess food and insufficient exercise.

Advantages of Spaying Female Jack Russell

You won't have the heat cycles that come every six months when your bitch goes into heat.

There are many health problems that unspayed bitches can have.

Lowers the chance of getting mammary tumors/cancer.

You won't have to worry about male dogs jumping fences to get at your terrier.

You won't have the worry about puppies you never wanted and mismatings that could be life threatening to her.

We recommend that your girl get spayed before her first heat which normally occurs in this size bitch around 6 months of age. Spaying before the first heat will dramatically decrease her chances of mammary cancers and all sorts of female disorders.

Advantages of Neutering Male Jack Russell

Early neutering can immensely decrease the likelihood of marking behavior.

Can make him more tolerant of other males.

Less tempted to escape or wander or be distracted from their family or work.

Will not develop testicular cancer, and the risk of prostate cancer is lowered.

You won't have the worry about puppies you never wanted.

It is strongly recommended that you spay/neuter your JRT unless you are planning to start a breeding program.